Method of improving and teaching golf swing

ABSTRACT

A method of improving and teaching a golf swing includes providing an adjustable-length tee with a height of at least 12 inches and a golf ball thereon to be addressed by a golfer; providing a club to be used by the golfer; swinging and hitting the golf ball off of the adjustable-length tee using the club by the golfer; and decreasing tee height of the adjustable-length tee as training progresses.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.10/299,569, filed on Nov. 18, 2002, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/399,107, filed on Jul. 27, 2002.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to sporting devices and, in particular, toan improved golf swing training device and a method of using the device.

2. Description of the Related Art

The three biggest barriers to entry in golf have been identified byindustry sources as DIFFICULTY, TIME and EXPENSE. A fourth barrier toentry is ACCESSIBILITY or LOCATION. This barrier is huge becausemillions of people simply do not have easy access to a golf course ordriving range. In addition, the same industry sources identify the twobiggest reasons that people play golf as: 1) the excitement of hitting aball and 2) socializing. Nothing else is close. The game of golf hasalways had its followers, but in recent years, interest in the sport hasdramatically increased. The game's difficulty and expensive equipment,however, represent significant barriers to people's participation.

For decades, if not centuries, golf club manufacturers have focusedtheir technological advances on making the ball go farther andstraighter when hit. Club manufacturers know that many golfers willspend thousands of dollars on new advances in equipment. They realizethat many players are looking to “buy” skill. However, a golf club willonly perform as well as the person swinging it. Unfortunately, thesetechnological advances have done little to make the ball substantiallyeasier to hit. Today's golfers are using virtually the exact same clubsused by PGA stars. These golfers are expected to go to the golf course,learn the game and perform well. This is unrealistic considering theenormous difficulty of the game as currently played. It is unfair andimpractical to expect people who have a minimal amount of time to devoteto practice to perform effectively with these clubs.

Of golfs DIFFICULTY, TIME, EXPENSE, and ACCESSIBILITY barrier's toentry, the game's DIFFICULTY is probably the largest barrier to entry.The golf swing consists of a synchronized motion around the axis of thespine. When a person is standing upright, their head, shoulders, arms,hips, legs and feet are in a relaxed, natural and comfortable position.When a right-handed person is given a golf club and looks down at theball, the golfer must tilt their spine angle, drop their right shoulderlower, lean forward at the hips and look down at the ball. This tilting,dropping, leaning and looking down disrupts the natural relationshipbetween the head, shoulders, arms, hips, legs and feet. The body now isin an unnatural or “disoriented” position. This creates many problemsbecause each part of the body now becomes “disoriented” and independentrelative to the other body parts. When one of those body parts movesindependently from the other parts during a golf swing, there is a“disconnection” in the swing. The golfer must re-educate each body partto perform in a synchronized way. This is a reason why the game can beso frustrating and difficult. It is also why the golf swing is sodifficult to learn.

The seven major problems with a learning a golf swing include: 1)Bending at the waist causes a change in body balance (This creates theenvironment for reverse pivoting, swaying, arm lifting the club, liftingthe head and more); 2) Bending at the waist disrupts normal bodyalignment (The head, shoulders, waist, and legs are now out ofalignment); 3) Bending at the waist causes the eyes' position to changefrom a normal “stereoscopic” to a “monoscopic” perception; 4) The lengthof the club; 5) The size of the club face; 6) The ball is as far fromeye level as possible; 7) The golf swing requires a “reflex” body actionthat uses a club to hit a stationary ball to a stationary target. Thegolfer must create this “reflex” action because the ball is static ornot moving. In effect, every new golfer has seven very difficultproblems to deal with and master all at the same time. Ball striking androtation are very difficult concepts from this “traditional” position.The “Swing Problems” listed above and more commence immediately inmultiple combinations. Players become so confused that they can't hit astationary ball. They become frustrated and humiliated and manyeventually quit.

Therefore, there exists a need for an improved golf training device andmethod particularly for a training device and method which effectivelyand inexpensively trains a player for playing golf with a traditionalgolf club.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The golf club and method of the present invention eliminate each of theabove-described barriers to entry. The golf club and method are aprogressive training aid that allows a fundamentally sound golf swing tobe efficiently built in stages from a waist high ball position to theground. The specially designed golf club and “graduated height teesystem” quickly delivers the fun and excitement of hitting a golf ball.The present invention and its' “Top Down” approach yield immediatepositive results. The present invention's functionality and portabilityhas “Universal Reach” and can help golfers of all skill levels frombeginner children to PGA tour players. The golf club and method alsoreinforce the two biggest reasons that people play golf: 1) theexcitement of hitting a ball and 2) socializing. The present inventiondelivers the excitement of hitting a golf ball and the opportunity tosocialize while playing golf faster and more efficiently than any golfproduct in the world. After a “golf swing foundation” is built theplayer can use the “graduated tee system” to progressively build spineangle into the swing. Each student may advance at their own pacedepending on their individual athleticism. Everyone immediately gets theexcitement of hitting a golf ball.

Each of the main barriers to golf and how the present invention reducesthese barriers will now be described. DIFFICULTY: The present inventionmakes hitting a golf ball easier than ever by: 1) a shorter shaft, 2) abigger club face and 3) moving the ball closer to eye level. Thespecialized club and “graduated height tee system” of the presentinvention rapidly accelerates learning the proper mechanics for the golfswing. The present invention quickly delivers the excitement of hittinga golf ball. The present invention also allows players to progressivelyadd spine angle (bending at the waist). Players do this by using thenext lower height tee at their own pace depending on their athleticism.TIME: The present invention rapidly teaches a fundamentally sound golfswing. With the present invention, a wonderfully sound golf swing can bedeveloped in a matter of minutes. The present invention immediatelydelivers the excitement of hitting a golf ball, rapidly accelerateslearning proper swing fundamentals and gives each player a huge dose ofconfidence and fun. In addition, the number one problem on golf coursesis slow play. Five to six hour rounds are common at many courses. Thisproblem “gums up” the works and discourages play. However, this “time”problem will always exist with the games current format. Beginners andlesser skilled players want to learn but cannot hit the ball. Thesebeginners and high handicap players with conventional clubs createextraordinarily long rounds. This “slow play problem” costs the gamedearly both financially and by frustrating other players. The presentinvention accelerates the pace of play on the course because golfersusing the present invention can hit the ball consistently. EXPENSE: Theequipment of the present invention is inexpensive. The present inventionoffers a huge financial opportunity to the world of golf. Golf coursescan give golfers using the present invention a break on greens fees andhave a separate teeing ground for them perhaps at the 150 yard marker.With this format, The present invention offers each facility a “NewMarket” and revenue stream. The USGA may also offer a special handicapsystem for the present invention that incorporates existing technology.This will give the USGA a better ROI (Return on Investment). Each coursemay be “Rated” at 54 for Starters. This format gives everybody thechance to hit the ball, socialize, have fun and compete. It can alsogenerate large revenue and growth for the game. Everybody, especiallythe game of golf, wins when these golfers graduate to conventionalequipment or even if they remain golfers using the present invention.This is also a wonderful way for physically challenged individuals toenjoy golf. Also, Senior Citizens playing golf using the presentinvention represent a huge potential growth resource for golf.ACCESSIBILITY OR LOCATION: The present invention delivers a constructiveand fun golf experience to the neighborhood and inner city. Golf hastraditionally been taught at driving ranges and golf courses. Thepresent invention offers a portable and fundamentally sound learningexperience that includes these two venues plus everywhere else. Thepresent invention may be used with golf balls and many other ball typesin neighborhoods, in the inner city, at parks, schools, on grass,asphalt, backyards and the like. The present invention introduces a newera in golf instruction and playability. This is all accomplished whilemaintaining the essence, tradition and competitive elements that havemade golf one of the world's most popular sports.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a golf clubis provided. The golf club includes a generally elongated shaft having alongitudinal axis, and a club head having at least one axis, a verticalmidpoint, and an enlarged planar hitting surface. In some embodiments,the hitting surface is symmetric about the vertical midpoint, and theaxis of the club head is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.In some embodiments, the shaft can be about 12-47 inches in length. Inone embodiment, the club is about 34 inches in length. In someembodiments, the club head can have a mass of about 300-600 g. In oneembodiment, the club head has a mass of about 335 g. In someembodiments, the club is adapted for both right-handed and left-handeduse, or ambidextrous use. The hitting surface can be circular.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a golfsystem is provided. The golf system includes a golf club and a tee. Theclub can include a club head having an enlarged hitting surface and ashort shaft. A golf ball is hit off of the tee using the club. Incertain embodiments, the club has a length of about 18-50 inches. In oneembodiment, the club is about 34 inches in length. In some embodiments,the hitting surface is circular. In some embodiments, the tee has aheight of about 12-60 inches.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a methodof learning golf is provided. The method includes choosing a first teehaving a first length, choosing a club, hitting a ball off of the teeusing the club, whereby a player learns proper swing mechanics. In someembodiments, the club head has at least one axis, a vertical midpoint,and an enlarged planar hitting surface that is symmetric about thevertical midpoint, the shaft has a longitudinal axis. The at least oneaxis of the club head can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of theshaft.

In some embodiments, the first tee has a height of about 34 inches.These embodiments can also include choosing a second tee having a heightof about 24 inches, wherein a player hits the ball off of the secondtee. These embodiments can also include a third tee having a height ofabout 14 inches, wherein a player hits the ball off of the third tee. Insome embodiments, the method can include choosing a plurality of tees ofvarying lengths, and decreasing the tee height as training progresses.In one embodiment, the first tee is telescoping. In some embodiments,the length of the first tee varies. In other embodiments, a plurality oftees of varying lengths can be provided, such that a player learns toplay golf by gradually starting with a tee at a height lower than theheight of the first tee to a tee at ground level. The tee can betelescoping. In some embodiments, the club can include an enlargedhitting surface, and have a mass of about 300-600 g.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a methodof learning golf is provided. The method includes providing at least afirst tee and a club having an enlarged hitting surface, and hitting aball off of the first tee using the club, whereby a player learns properswing mechanics.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a methodof playing a game is provided. The method includes placing a tee havinga height of about 12-60 inches in the ground, and hitting a ball off ofthe tee with a club having an elongate shaft having a longitudinal axisand a club head having an axis passing through the center of mass of theclub head. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the shaft andthe axis of the club head are collinear.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a golfclub having an elongated shaft and a club head is provided. The clubhead can have an enlarged round hitting surface, and the plane of thehitting surface is parallel with a longitudinal axis passing through theshaft.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a methodof learning golf is provided. The method includes gradually andincrementally decreasing the tee height. The individual may bend more atthe waist as the tee height is decreased. The club can be adapted forboth right-handed and left-handed use.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, a method ofimproving and teaching a golf swing is provided. The method includesproviding an adjustable-length tee with a height of at least 12 inchesand a golf ball thereon to be addressed by a golfer; providing a club tobe used by the golfer; swinging and hitting the golf ball off of theadjustable-length tee using the club by the golfer; and decreasing teeheight of the adjustable-length tee as training progresses.

In accordance with a still further embodiment of the invention, anadjustable-length tee for improving and teaching a golf swing isprovided. The adjustable-length tee includes more than one lengthreplaceable shaft; and a tee support that slidably receives thereplaceable shaft, wherein the adjustable-length tee includes a heightof at least 12 inches, and the height of the adjustable-length tee isdecreasable as training progresses.

For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is madeto the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an alternative golf club in accordancewith certain embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an alternative golf club in accordancewith certain other embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the head of the golf club of FIG. 1A.

FIGS. 3A-B are front views of the head of the club of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the head of the club of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 5A is a side view of adjacent tees of varying heights in accordancewith certain embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a telescoping tee in accordance withcertain embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a player using the combined golf club and teesystem of certain embodiments wherein the tee is at waist level.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a player using the combined golf club and teesystem of certain embodiments wherein the tee is at a lower level asskill progresses.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a player using the combined golf club and teesystem of certain embodiments wherein the tee is at an even lower levelas skill further progresses.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a tee constructed in accordance with afurther embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to theaccompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like elementsthroughout. The terminology used in the description presented herein isnot intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive mannersimply because it is being utilized in conjunction with a detaileddescription of certain specific embodiments of the invention.Furthermore, embodiments of the invention may include several novelfeatures, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirableattributes or which is essential to practicing the inventions hereindescribed.

Referring to FIG. 1A, there is illustrated one embodiment of the golfclub 100 in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentinvention. Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to a golftraining system. However, other embodiments relate to the generalsporting and entertainment aspects of golf.

The golf training system described herein offers the golfer theopportunity to learn golf from the “top down”. This “top down” approachto teaching the modern swing will yield quicker results and success.Today's modern swing mechanics require that the golfer keep the club infront of the body. This position keeps the club from getting trappedbehind the golfer where all sorts of problems occur. Many of golfsfinest instructors accurately describe the golf swing as similar to abaseball swing, but on a different plane. Common swing problems such as:“head lifting”, “hips swaying”, the “reverse pivot”, “arm swing”, “flatswing”, “upright swing” and more, can all be identified and correctedwith the present system. For good players, the system will help identifyswing flaw tendencies or “disconnections” when things go bad. One“disconnection” occurs when golfers lift their heads when they swing.

The present system enables the golfer to quickly feel the benefit ofsynchronizing the shoulders, hips and legs around the spine axis indeveloping proper swing mechanics. Concepts such as balance, rotation,connection, keeping the club in front of the player and more areautomatically taught by use of the present invention. By placing theball on an elevated tee closer to eye level, the player may assume amuch more natural position and be taught proper swing mechanics in amore relaxed and enjoyable format.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, a golf club 100 having ashaft 110, grip 120 and club head 130 is provided. The golf club 100 canbe used as a training device or for playing. The overall club length canbe from about 18 inches to 50 inches. In some embodiments, the shaft110, grip 120, and club head 130 all lie along a common longitudinalaxis. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1B, the club head 130 can beoriented such that the club head 130 is at an angle with respect to thelongitudinal axis of the shaft 110. The angle can be acute (0-90°),obtuse (90-180°), or reflex (180-360°). In some embodiments, the clubmaintains vertical symmetry about the longitudinal axis of the shaft110.

In one embodiment, the shaft 110 of the club is straight and has acircular cross-section. However, other cross-sectional shapes can beused, such as polygonal, elliptical, octagonal and other round shapes.The shaft can be made of a metal, such as steel, but any other materialscan be used. Examples of materials that can be used include titanium,graphite, hard plastics, polymers, composites, other metals, orcombinations thereof.

The grip 120 is similar to a grip used with traditional golf clubs. Thegrip 120 has a cylindrical shape and includes a tubular opening, havingan inner diameter adapted to receive the shaft 110. In many embodiments,the inner portion of grip 120 is adapted to the shape of shaft 110.Accordingly, if shaft 110 has a non-circular cross-section, at least theinner tubular portion also has a corresponding or complimentarycross-section. The grip 120 can be molded to the shape of the hands. Thegrip 120 can be made of rubber, leather, or other materials.

With reference to FIGS. 2-4, the club head 130 is shown in detail. Inthe embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 4, the club head 130can have a circular club face 135 and a hemispherical back 140. The clubface 135 can be in a plane that is positioned parallel to thelongitudinal axis passing through shaft 110, grip 120, and club head130. Other shapes can also be used for club face 135, such as polygonal,elliptical, octagonal and other curved or non-curved shapes.

Club head 130 includes a number of axes, X and Y in FIG. 2. In someembodiments, at least one axis X of the club face 135 is parallel to thelongitudinal axis which passes through shaft 110. The club face 135 alsoincludes a vertical midpoint. In some embodiments, the club face 135 issymmetrical about the vertical midpoint. In certain embodiments, theclub head 130 is symmetrical about the vertical midpoint. In manyembodiments, the same club can be used by either left- or right-handedplayers. In one embodiment, at least one axis Y passes through thecenter of mass of the club head 130. In this embodiment, the axispassing through the center of mass of the club head 130 can be collinearwith the longitudinal axis of the shaft 110.

The face 135 of the club may also include a surface treatment 145, whichcan be decorative and/or functional, as shown in FIG. 3B. Examples ofsurface treatments 145 include scoring, cladding, plating and coatings,although other surface treatments can be used as well. The surfacetreatment 145 can be provided on the club face 135 using anymanufacturing techniques available. The surface treatment 145 can beprovided on the club face 135 for improved alignment of the club head130. Additionally, the surface treatment 145 can be provided on the clubface 135 for improved energy transfer to the ball or for improved spin.The club head 130 can be made of a metal, such as, for example, steel,stainless steel, aluminum, titanium or combinations thereof. Examples ofother materials include hard plastics, polymers, composites, andcombinations thereof, however, other materials can also be used. Thematerials used to make the club head 130 can be disposed in either ahomogeneous or heterogeneous manner throughout. In homogenousembodiments, the club head 130 is made of the same material throughout.In heterogeneous embodiments, a combination of materials can be used toform club head 130 and may be individually and discretely located in theclub head 130 to optimize material and mechanical effects of the clubhead 130. For example, the club face 135 can be made of one material,while the hemispherical back 140 can be made of another material, orcombinations of materials.

The diameter of the face 135 can range from about 3-6 inches in someembodiments, and about 4-5 inches in other embodiments. The total volumeof the club head 130 can range from about 300-600 cc, and is about 340cc in one embodiment. The club head 130 has a mass ranging from about300-600 g in some embodiments, and is about 335 g in one embodiment. Thevalues provided are merely exemplary, however, and the dimensions andmass of the club head 130 can vary significantly to improve the ease ofuse and stability of the club.

The additional weight of the club head and shorter length of the clubshaft provide improved stability in many embodiments. By shortening thelength and increasing the mass, the club 100 has a lower moment ofinertia about the longitudinal axis of the player's spine. The club 100is easier to swing because the moment of inertia about the axis passingthrough the player is lower. The club 100 has a higher moment of inertiaabout a longitudinal axis passing through the length of the club. Theability of a club head 130 to resist twisting during off-center hits isdesirable, especially to recreational golfers, who frequently makecontact away from the center of the club face 135. A club with a lowmoment of inertia about the axis passing through the club tends to twistopen or closed depending on the contact location, and the direction ofthe shot suffers. A higher moment of inertia makes the club head 130more resistant to twisting, resulting in a generally straighter shot.The enlarged hitting surface 135 also improves a players ability to hitthe ball.

The club 100 can be made from any manufacturing methods for producinggolf clubs, such as forging, molding, brazing, welding, and/or casting,although other manufacturing techniques can be used as well. Forginginvolves producing a golf club head from a series of forging dies, andstamping the head to a final shape. Forged heads are typically made ofsofter metals than cast heads and can require hand finishing and chromeplating. Compression molding is typically used with composite materials.Molding involves layering graphite or other materials and heat curingthe layers to create a club head. In some embodiments, the grip 120 canbe attached to the shaft 110 using compression fit techniques. Incertain embodiments, adhesives can also be used to apply the grip 120 tothe shaft 110. Alternatively, the grip 120 can be formed with the shaft110. In one embodiment, the shaft 110 can be removably attached to theclub head 130.

With reference to FIG. 5A, in accordance with certain embodiments, a tee150 is provided. The tee preferably includes a shaft 152, tip 154, andtee top 156. The tee 150 can come in at least three different sizes:beginner 160, intermediate 170, and advanced 180, but more or fewersizes can be used, as will be described in detail hereinafter. The terms“beginner”, “intermediate”, and “advanced” are used only for descriptivepurposes and are not intended to be limiting. In some embodiments, asshown in FIG. 5B, the tee 150 can be telescoping, such that a single teemay provide varying height levels. Any method of producing a telescopingeffect for a rod or tube can be used in such embodiments.

The shaft 152 of the tee is generally straight and can have a circularcross-section. However, other cross-sectional shapes can be used, suchas such as polygonal, elliptical, octagonal and other curved ornon-curved shapes. In some embodiments, the shaft 152 can be curved. Thecross-sectional diameter can vary as well, such that the diameter isgreater at the tip 154 and smaller at the tee top 156, or vice versa. Incertain embodiments, the shaft 152 is made of a metal, such as steel ortitanium, but other materials, such as graphite, composites, polymers,hard plastics, or combinations thereof can be used. The length of shaft152 is variable as described below.

Tip 154 is located at the bottom end of shaft 152. Tip 154 can include abase 158 and an extension 159. The base 158 can be circular and can havea wider diameter than both the extension 159 and the shaft 152. Anyother shape that provides stability can be used. The base 158 providesstructural support to the tee 150, such that the tee 150 has stabilitywhen placed in the ground. The extension 159 can be tapered at itsbottom-most portion, such that the tip easily enters the ground and isof adequate length to provide stability and remain in the ground. Inuse, the extension 159 is within the ground, while the base 158 is justabove the ground, resting on the surface.

Tee top 156 can be a tubular member which fits over the top end of shaft152. In many embodiments, the tee top 156 is a resilient material, suchas rubber. Tee top 156 provides flexibility to the tee 150, such thatthere is minimal movement of the shaft 152 and tip 154 when the club 100hits a ball and, possibly, the tee 150.

In certain embodiments, each part of the tee 150 is formed separately,and assembled using compression fit techniques. The shaft 152 and tip154 can be manufactured as an integral unit, with the tee top 156assembled using compression fit techniques. Other methods, such as, forexample, welding, brazing, and adhesives can be used to secure the shaft152, tip 154, and tee top 156 together.

In one embodiment, the beginner tee 160 is about waist high. In certainembodiments as illustrated in FIG. 5A, the tee is about 34 inches inlength, shown by height C. The beginner tee 160 is designed to get thegolfer acclimated to hitting the ball in a more natural “hit zone.” Inone embodiment, the second or intermediate tee 170 is about 24 inches inlength, shown by height B. The intermediate tee 170 allows the golfer tohit the ball with more power as a more vertical swing develops. Thegolfer should try to hit the ball on a slight upswing. In oneembodiment, the third or advanced tee 180 is about 14 inches in length,shown by height A. The advanced tee 180 allows the golfer to hit theball with power as the swing advances to a more vertical attack. In manyembodiments the tees 150 vary in height from about 12-60 inches.

By providing a number of tees 160, 170, and 180 of varying lengths, aplayer is able to gradually adjust their swing level as their skillsprogress. The player may start at the beginner tee 160, and work down tothe intermediate tee 170, and then to the advanced tee 180, such thatproper swing mechanics are developed gradually, however, any number ofdifferent heights can be used. The gradual variation in tee heightallows a player to adjust from a first swing, which is similar to abaseball swing, to a traditional golf swing.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the method of using the club 100 and tee system150 are shown. The height of the tee, and thus the ball level is showngradually and incrementally lowering in FIGS. 6-8. By gradually reducingthe height of the tee from the beginning tee 160, to the intermediatetee 170, to the advanced tee 180, the player gradually steps down from afirst swing, which is similar to baseball and comes more naturally toplayers, to a golf swing.

FIG. 6 shows a player 185 using the club 100 and a beginner tee 160 tohit a ball 190. FIG. 7 shows a player 185 using the club 100 and anintermediate tee 170 to hit the ball 190. FIG. 8 shows a player 185using the club 100 and an advanced tee 180 to hit the ball 190.

The length of the club 100 can also be adjusted. The club length can beadjusted simultaneously with the adjustment of the tee height.Alternatively, a player can adjust between tees 160, 170, and 180 usingthe same length club 100, and subsequently increase the length of club100.

The tee 150 should be firmly implanted into the ground, unless othermethods of supporting the tee 150 are provided. In some embodiments,which are not shown, the tee 150 includes a tip 154 which permits thetee 150 to support itself on the ground without being implanted.

With reference to FIG. 9, a tee 250 constructed in accordance with afurther embodiment of will be described. The tee 250 preferably includesa replaceable shaft 252, a tee support 254, tightening mechanism 255,and tee top 256. The shaft 252 comes in at least three different lengths(beginner 260, intermediate 270, and advanced 280) so that the tee 250can be configured to come in at least three different respective sizes:beginner 260, intermediate 270, and advanced 280, but more or fewersizes can be used. The terms “beginner”, “intermediate”, and “advanced”are used only for descriptive purposes and are not intended to belimiting.

The shafts 252 are generally straight and can have a circularcross-section. However, other cross-sectional shapes can be used, suchas such as polygonal, elliptical, octagonal and other curved ornon-curved shapes. In some embodiments, the shafts 252 can be curved.The cross-sectional diameter can vary as well, such that the diameter isgreater near a bottom of the shaft 252 and smaller at the tee top 256,or vice versa. The shafts 252 may be made out of a hard plasticmaterial, or, in other embodiments, the shafts 252 is made of a metal,such as steel or titanium, or other materials, such as, but not limitedto, graphite, composites, polymers, hard plastics, or combinationsthereof can be used. As indicated above, the removable shafts 252 comein different lengths (beginner 260, intermediate 270, and advanced 280).For example, someone just starting off with the golf club 100 may usethe beginner shaft 260 with the tee support 254. Someone of intermediatelevel may use the intermediate shaft 270 with the tee support 254.Someone of advanced level may use the advanced shaft 280 with the teesupport 254. By incorporating different-length shafts 252, only one tee250 is needed for different skill levels.

The tee support 254 is located at the bottom end of shaft 252. The teesupport 254 includes a frusto-conical base 258 and a hollow neck 259.Although the base 258 is described as being frusto-conical, inalternative embodiments, the base 258 may have other configurations(e.g., rectangulary block-shaped, triangular block-shaped). The base 258is made of a hard rubber material, and includes a ballast therein toprovide structural support to the tee 250, such that the tee 250 hasstability when placed on the ground. The hollow neck 259 slidablyreceives the shaft 252. The tightening mechanism 255 can be loosened tofacilitate removal of and insertion of the shaft 252, and tightened toretain the shaft 252 in the neck 259. In the embodiment shown, thetightening mechanism 255 is a metal collar with a tightening key that isrotated to tighten and loosen the collar around the neck 259. In otherembodiments, other tightening mechanisms may be used.

The tee top 256 can be a tubular member which fits over the top end ofshaft 252. In many embodiments, the tee top 256 is a resilient material,such as rubber. Tee top 256 adds flexibility to the tee 250.

In certain embodiments, each part of the tee 250 is formed separately,and the shaft 252 and the tee top 256 are assembled using compressionfit techniques. Other methods, such as, for example, welding, brazing,and adhesives can be used to secure the shaft 252 and the tee top 256together.

The height of the tee 252 with the shafts 252 (beginner 260,intermediate 270, and advanced 280) correspond to those described abovewith respect to FIG. 5A.

In use, the tee 252 is placed on a flat surface, and theappropriate-length shaft 250 is provided with the tee support 258. Auser places a golf ball on the tee top 256, and swings at the golf ballwith the golf club 100. If the club head 130 hits too low on the tee top256/shaft 250, the tee 250 will topple over, instead of being knockedtoo far from the user. The weighted nature of the tee support 258 causesthe tee 250 to topple over when the club head 130 hits too low on thetee top 256/shaft 250, preventing the tee support 258 from moving toofar from its original position. This prevents the tee 250 from beingknocked too far from the user. By providing a single tee 252 withvarying lengths, players are able to gradually adjust their swing levelas their skills progress. The player may start the tee 252 at thebeginner length 260, and work down to the intermediate length 270, andthen to the advanced length 280, such that proper swing mechanics aredeveloped gradually. The gradual variation in tee height allows a playerto adjust from a first swing, which is similar to a baseball swing, to atraditional golf swing.

An example of how to play on a golf course using the equipment describedherein will now be explained.

In certain embodiments, the player tees off using their club 100 withthe tee 150, 250. Subsequent shots can be played by placing the tee 150in the general vicinity where the ball lies, such as directly behind, infront of, on the side of the ball, or any other desirable location. Theplayer can use the tee 150 anywhere on the course, including bunkers andhazards. The ball can be lifted and placed on the tee 150, 250 and hitagain, until the green is reached. In some embodiments, when on thegreen, the player uses the club 100 as a traditional putter, without thetee. However, the club 100 can be used without a tee 150, 250 at anyother location as well.

In certain embodiments, the beginner tee 160, 260 can be used for shotsaround the green. The player can choke up on the club 100 and open theface 135 towards the sky to decrease the distance the ball travels. Inthis position, the ball can be hit high and soft for improved control.In some embodiments, the golfer can try to hit “line drives” that flystraight off the tee 150, 250.

The club 100 helps golfers focus on developing proper swing fundamentalsand eye-hand coordination. The club design of some embodiments more thandoubles the club face hitting area of the club 100 compared to that ofexisting club face hitting areas. Also, the club 100 has a decreasedshaft length, which reduces the “swing arc” and makes the club 100easier to control. Furthermore, the tees 150, 250 put the ball in a morenatural position to be hit with a swing similar to baseball or tennis.By placing the ball closer to eye level, the player's eye-handcoordination is improved. The benefits of these advances can beimmediate and enormous. The ball is more easily hit, thereby enhancingthe individual's experience, making the game more enjoyable.

Embodiments of the club 100 and tees 150, 250 also make the game lessfrustrating and physically demanding. The system accelerates the pace ofthe game, while maintaining the essence, tradition and competitiveelements that have made golf one of the country's most popular sports.

With the system described herein, the golfer learns to keep their eyeson the ball. Another example of a common “disconnection” would be the“swaying” of one's hips. This is a major flaw for many amateurs. Byswinging embodiments of the club 100 as described herein, a player isable to identify and correct flaws in his swing mechanics. With thesystems and methods as described herein, a player cannot sway off theball without feeling the problem. After a short time, the lower bodyshould reconnect to the normal swing and swing mechanics should returnto normal. The training system enables golfers to quickly re-centertheir swing around the “spine” axis of the spine.

The golf training system described herein: (1) places the ball closer toeye level in a more natural position to be hit with a swing similar tothat used in baseball or tennis; (2) more than doubles the club facehitting area; and, (3) decreases the length of the club 100, whichreduces the “swing arc”, making the club easier to control. By graduallyreducing the height of the ball on the tee, the player is able tocomfortably step down to a traditional golf swing.

The game of golf has never been taught with this type of specializedequipment using a “top down” approach. Golf has been taught forcenturies with a ball on the ground position. The club design andgraduated (progressive) tee system are industry breakthroughs andcompletely unique. The golf training system described herein providesmany advantages, some of which are described below. The golf trainingsystem makes the ball easier to hit and accelerates playing time, whichresults in more time spent socially with family and friends. The golftraining system also reduces anxiety, humiliation, fear, andintimidation. The system provides a great teaching aid by acceleratingand encouraging players to learn proper swing mechanics. The club alsoprovides for better ball control. The same club can be used by bothright and left handed players. Many embodiments of the club may be usedfor all shots including putts, so that only one club is required duringan entire game, although more than one club can be used. Existinggolfers may use the system to work on their mechanics. The system canalso result in an expansion of the golfing public, because of thereduced cost, reduced frustration and improved efficiency. Furthermore,older or injured players will be able to prolong their golfing careersor even learn the game for the first time.

The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the invention.It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed theforegoing appears in text, the invention can be practiced in many ways.As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particularterminology when describing certain features or aspects of the inventionshould not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-definedherein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of thefeatures or aspects of the invention with which that terminology isassociated. The scope of the invention should therefore be construed inaccordance with the appended claims and any equivalents thereof.

1. A method of improving and teaching a golf swing, comprising:providing an adjustable-length tee with a height of at least 12 inchesand a golf ball thereon to be addressed by a golfer; providing a club tobe used by the golfer; swinging and hitting the golf ball off of theadjustable-length tee using the club by the golfer; and decreasing teeheight of the adjustable-length tee as training progresses.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the adjustable-length tee includes a colinearshaft and tee top.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein theadjustable-length tee includes a height of about 34 inches.
 4. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the adjustable-length tee includes a heightof about 24 inches.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein theadjustable-length tee includes a height of about 14 inches.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the adjustable-length tee includes more thanone length replaceable shaft and a tee support that slidably receivesthe replaceable shaft.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the tee supportincludes a base with ballast.
 8. The method of claim 6, wherein the teesupport includes an elongated hollow neck that slidably receives theshaft.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein tee support includes atightening mechanism for tightening and loosening the neck with respectto the shaft.
 10. The method of claim 6, wherein shaft includes a teetop that receives the golf ball thereon.
 11. An adjustable-length teefor improving and teaching a golf swing, comprising: more than onelength replaceable shaft; and a tee support that slidably receives thereplaceable shaft, wherein the adjustable-length tee includes a heightof at least 12 inches, and the height of the adjustable-length tee isdecreasable as training progresses.
 12. The tee of claim 11, wherein theadjustable-length tee further includes a tee top colinear with theshaft.
 13. The tee of claim 11, wherein the adjustable-length teeincludes a height of about 34 inches.
 14. The tee of claim 11, whereinthe adjustable-length tee includes a height of about 24 inches.
 15. Thetee of claim 11, wherein the adjustable-length tee includes a height ofabout 14 inches.
 16. The tee of claim 11, wherein the adjustable-lengthtee includes more than one length replaceable shaft and a tee supportthat slidably receives the replaceable shaft.
 17. The tee of claim 16,wherein the tee support includes a base with ballast.
 18. The tee ofclaim 16, wherein the tee support includes an elongated hollow neck thatslidably receives the shaft.
 19. The tee of claim 16, wherein teesupport includes a tightening mechanism for tightening and loosening theneck with respect to the shaft.
 20. The tee of claim 6, wherein shaftincludes a tee top that receives the golf ball thereon.